As well as bird boxes birds love nesting in old trees, so wherever it’s practical and safe to do so old tress should be left standing. If they have to be chopped down, leave them on the ground and in hedges as they make great fodder for insects. Resist the urge to make your garden too tidy!

But in many gardens these days there is plenty of food for small birds but nowhere for them to nest. Nestboxes are excellent substitutes, especially as you can usually position them within view.

Over 60 species of bird are known to have used nest boxes, but the most successful designs have a range of specific species in mind. Much depends on where the box is and the surroundings, but the size of the hole is also important. This nestbox has a hole of 28mm diameter, which is favoured by small garden birds.

All the nestboxes are handmade in the Pathways workshop in Oxfordshire which provides valuable employment opportunities for people with disabilities or those who may be disadvantaged in the labour market. The boxes are made using traditional woodworking skills and wood which is donated by local businesses.